There is so much excitement at the Children’s Museum! We are putting the finishing touches on our new Tot Spot, Open Studio Center and Kid’s Art Gallery in the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Creativity Floor. These new exhibits, made possible through a grant from Ronald McDonald House Charities of Erie, will open later this fall. Be sure to check our website and facebook page for official opening announcements.
We were thrilled to receive nearly $4,000 during Erie Gives Day on August 12. Thank you to all of the donors who supported us through this exciting program. In early September, the PNC Bank team participated in the annual Erie Insurance Charity Golf Challenge and were successful- winning $1500 for your Children’s Museum. These funds are so important to us as we begin planning a special year full of celebration!
Did you hear? The expERIEnce Children’s Museum is turning 20 in 2015! The museum officially opened its doors July 8, 1995. Since then, hundreds of thousands of children and their families have enjoyed learning through play at the museum. We’re busy planning a year full of celebration with 20 “experiences” throughout the year. It’s fun to take a look at the handprint tiles that are found throughout the museum. Many of the original tiles were created as a fundraiser to open the museum. These tiles remind me just how brief childhood is and how I should embrace the time with my own children. I hope you will consider purchasing a tile for your children or grandchildren in 2015 as we designate ½ of the proceeds of the tiles to our endowment fund at the Erie Community Foundation. Your gift will not only leave lasting memory of the special child in your life at the museum but will help secure the future of the children’s museum.
As I look around the Children’s Museum today- I see now more than ever how important the role of a Children’s Museum can play in a community. It’s a place where families can “unplug” and have fun together. It’s a place where you can let your imagination soar and be a superhero, doctor, or grocery store clerk all in one day! It’s a place where getting messy and creative is not only allowed- it’s encouraged. Now more than ever- we need the support of our community so that future generations will enjoy the Children’s Museum for years to come.
I look forward to seeing all of you at the museum.
Ainslie Brosig
Executive Director
